The Brown Scapular consists of two small panels of cloth joined by strings and worn
over the shoulders. It is a miniature version of the type of clothing worn by the
Carmelite Order, traditionally worn over the shoulders as an apron.
On July 16, 1251, St. Simon Stock received the scapular from Our Blessed Mother as
a sign of her protection. With it came the promise that whoever wore her “habit”
devoutly would be assured of eternal salvation.
When people wear the scapular, it is a sign that they have dedicated themselves to
Mary, and are members of the family of the Mother of God. True devotion to Mary
consists of honoring her, trusting her and loving her. Without saying anything, we tell
her these things by simply wearing the scapular. The scapular then becomes our
constant prayer to Mary.
People are enrolled in the scapular by a priest only once. Once a person has been
enrolled in the cloth scapular, it can be replaced afterwards by a scapular medal. Worn
scapulars are simply replaced.
The scapular is a sign of Mary’s protection of us. There are many stories of people’s
lives being saved by wearing the scapular, but we must remember it is not a magical
charm, or an automatic guarantee of salvation.
The scapular is a sign of our love for Mary. It stands for a commitment to follow
Jesus as Mary did. It reminds us to be open to God’s will as Mary was, to listen to
the Word of God in the Bible, to pray, to receive the sacraments, and to be open to
the needs of our neighbor.
We can profess our special devotion of Mary each day, at least, by saying the Hail
Mary three times.